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A story of empowerment that doesn't end here.

The influences of a black queen

Aleali May, as the strong woman she is, creates to those who are growing up without forgetting where she came from. The shy athlete in love with sneakers, who grew up without much contact with major brands, is now in her 4th collaboration with Nike-Jordan. The influencer, model, and sneaker designer has worked with the brand on other occasions, but this is her first, and genderless, capsule collection.

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Califia was the name of a black queen who probably inspired the name of California, May's home. Centered around women’s empowerment, Califia is also a tribute to May's PE teacher, Shanora Holloway, who helped her and many other girls grow up in and out of the gym.

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The collection has a lot of Los Angeles style, including using a similar palette to the colors of the school where Holloway worked. Blue and green are now part of Califia, in performance shorts, cropped jerseys, and full-length track tops, the apparel embraces athleisure and celebrates women in sports. One of the highlights of the collection is a leather-sleeved varsity jacket. It is May's personal essence being conveyed to a Jordan piece.

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Obviously, Califia's star is the Jordan 1 Zoom sneaker. With the same shades, the royal blue uppers and collar flaps are contrasted with an ivy green leather toe-box and heel. It's already a classic, unique and full of essence. It's a piece that celebrates Holloway's work in keeping girls in sports. May's designs rescue her roots and open doors for the next generation of women.

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Stay tuned not to miss any item of this collection that has everything to mark the history of the Jordans. Califia and the Jordan 1 Zoom drop on April 22 on Nike's and Jordan's websites or at select retailers.

Continue running to our apparel sesh.

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